Researchers asking Cowichan region residents how they feel about tourism

Residents aged 15 and older can share their thoughts in an online survey.

The number of visitors to Vancouver Island has nearly recovered to pre-pandemic levels and in some cases, communities are seeing more tourists than even before. Unfortunately, the labour market hasn’t recovered to the same degree and some communities are feeling the strain.

The World Leisure Centre of Excellence at Vancouver Island University (VIU), in partnership with Tourism Cowichan, is asking residents to give feedback on tourism development in the Cowichan region. 

“As international visitors return to the Island and Canadians keep coming, some Island communities are reaching their hosting capacity,” said VIU researcher and former Lake Cowichan resident Dr. Aggie Weighill. “We need to ensure that tourism development is sustainable and adds to Islanders’ quality of life rather than making communities unlivable."

Researchers are inviting anyone aged 15 years or older who lives in the Cowichan Region to complete an anonymous online survey. Data collection will conclude on March 17.

Study results will be shared with the Tourism Cowichan Board and used for tourism planning.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

Eric Zimmer, Communications Officer, Vancouver Island University

P: 250.618.7296 | E: Eric.Zimmer@viu.ca